Is Porn the Main Cause of Your Erection Problems?

Written by: Keith G. Tolman
Updated: 11/06/2018
Published: 05/28/2015

Many couples think that porn spices things up in the bedroom. But new research shows that it could actually be harming your sexual performance. A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that 25% of new erectile dysfunction patients are younger than 40 years old. In 2002, a Dutch study showed that less than 2% of men under 40 suffer from erectile dysfunction. What caused this rapid increase in erectile dysfunction among younger men?

Experts have several theories. For example, younger men are experiencing more stress, which can lead to erectile dysfunction. Obesity, cardiovascular disorders, alcohol consumption, and drug abuse can also lead to erection problems. However, research also suggests that online porn can contribute to sexual dysfunction.

Online pornography has gone viral. Large numbers of men and women can access porn anonymously. Almost anything you can imagine is readily available. We’re not taking about your dad’s Playboy magazine. You can find all kinds of hardcore themes and fetishes. It’s not just limited to images. People can access streaming services and even video chat with real people. The Internet gives you access to instant sexual gratification. According to some experts, the accessibility of pornography is part of the problem.

Pornography isn’t completely bad. It can give you new ideas and generate excitement. But frequent masturbation using online porn may have a negative impact on sexual performance with your partner. This is particularly true if you regularly masturbate a few hours before sexual activity. Experts believe that it can also lower your sex drive.

Frequent masturbation with pornography can cause your body to only respond to certain visual cues and stimuli. If you watch a lot of porn, an encounter with a real woman may not arouse you. Some men who use online porn can only be turned on when they are in front of a computer screen.

Porn-induced erection problems can lead to decreased confidence and sexual performance issues. You may feel frustrated, irritable, or anxious. Your relationships may suffer if your partner does not understand the problem, which can lead to depression and loneliness. Fortunately, you don’t have to forego masturbation completely. Frequent masturbation is only an issue if it interferes with your life.

If you think you may have a problem, you can start by changing up your masturbation sessions. You may need to recondition your brain to respond to different types of sexual stimuli. If you only watch one kind of porn, try switching to another type. If you follow the same routine every time, try something different. Don’t be afraid to use your imagination. Before pornography was readily available, men often used their own fantasies to masturbate.

During the recovery period, you may experience decreased libido. However, the effect is temporary. By altering your routine and trying new things, you’ll train your brain to respond to new stimuli. You’ll be more open to different sensations and images. This will help you get aroused and enjoy yourself when you have the opportunity to have sex with a partner.